Shrimpers in Port Salerno Fl

I am told that there are three good restaurants on the river in Port Salerno. One of which myself, my wife and another couple visited while attending the Seafood Festival ( see Seafood Festival Port Salerno Fl blog entry) on a beautiful day in January.

Plenty of outdoor seating right on the water, makes this spot a welcome site. We literally sat right next to some one’s cigarette boat as we ate our lunch. Tables with umbrella’s for those who don’t like eating in the sun’s strong rays or right out there in the middle of the heat. They also have outdoor seating in the bar area that has a covering over top of the serving and table areas.

We chose the table in the shady part of the outside seating to get the best of both.

I come to Florida as often as possible and when I do I make it a point to find a place that serves Grouper. If you don’t know, Grouper is a white fish with the texture of lobster meat. It should be cut fillet style for best portions. I like it because it is thick and flaky when prepared correctly a this one was. I ordered the Crispy Grouper Reuben which I later found out is one of the house specialties. As with any good Reuben the Crispy fried Grouper is sandwiched between two slices of grilled rye bread. Instead of sauerkraut, Shrimpers uses Cole slaw with a light spread of thousand island dressing and Swiss cheese. Served on the side are Seasoned Fries, a pickle wedge and Cole slaw. I have to say that this was one of the best sandwiches I have ever eaten.. From the crispy Grouper to the grilled rye, everything about the combo was fantastic. I now understand why Shrimpers is known for its Grouper Reuben. The price is a little steep at $13.95 but everyone should experience this sandwich at least one time.

As luck would have it my friends decided to follow my lead and order the same thing. My wife on the other hand loves Sushi Tuna seasoned and grilled rare over a bed of greens. She couldn’t resist this salad on the menu. Served with wasabi, fresh ginger (ask and they will gladly bring you extra), a sesame ginger dressing and some crispy noodles as a garnish. The Tuna was exceptional and as good as any we have had before back in New Jersey. The salad cost $12.95 and the portion was enough for her, although she was hungry later that day and I couldn’t eat a thing until late that night.

Beers were cold and from a pretty decent selection. The fancy drinks leave a little to be desired as with most places the alcohol gets lost in the fruity drinks they add to them.

Overall for three Grouper Sandwiches, a Sesame Tuna Salad, three beers and a fancy mixed drink, $77.00. As I said earlier, a little pricey but the excellent food more than makes up for the cost of lunch. Service by Stephanie was terrific and cheerful. She was very knowledgeable and helpful with the menu and  her suggestion was right on the money.

Regular Guy rating of * * * *

Shrimpers

on the river in Port Salerno Florida

( 20 minutes southeast of Stuart) off Dixie Highway